"This decision applies to all Catholic schools in Cook and Lake Counties operated by the Archdiocese of Chicago. Catholic schools not operated by the archdiocese, such as those governed by religious orders, will make decisions individually."

Published March 13, 2020•Updated on March 13, 2020 at 10:06 am

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All Catholic schools in Cook and Lake counties operated by the Archdiocese of Chicago will close beginning Monday, the Archdiocese announced Friday, as coronavirus cases in Illinois continue to rise.

"Due to the prevalence of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in the greater Chicago area, the Archdiocese of Chicago is announcing a system-wide closure of Catholic schools, effective Monday, March 16," Catholic Schools Supt. Jim Rigg said in a statement. "This decision applies to all Catholic schools in Cook and Lake Counties operated by the Archdiocese of Chicago. Catholic schools not operated by the archdiocese, such as those governed by religious orders, will make decisions individually."

Rigg said the Archdiocese has not determined how long the closure will last and an announcement will be made "when we have determined a date to reopen."

St. Margaret school officials were informed Thursday evening that the student had tested positive for the virus, according to school officials. The school is located at 9833 S. Throop St. in Chicago's Longwood Manor neighborhood.

The student in question also attended the school's mass at St. Margaret of Scotland Church on Thursday, the letter reads.